+1 on the difference between choosing to and having to... while I haven't made lots of money or purchased big ticket items, I did make relatively much as a high

+1 on the difference between choosing to and having to... while I haven't made lots of money or purchased big ticket items, I did make relatively much as a high school student (more than my peers) and blew it all on graphics cards, SLR cameras, airsoft guns, 23" CRTs (yes, I'm that old), and what have you. After I while I noticed that I got no permanent satisfaction out of those purchases. Perhaps it's good I realized this early. On the other hand having money that was put into savings instead of stuff creates the feeling of power and potential. When I started saving I counted my net worth in cars (because consumerism was still my frame of reference). Imagine walking past a car lot and knowing one has enough money to buy 1-2-3, .... later 8-9-10 ... today dozens of cars (now I count in houses instead ;-) ) on the lot in _cash_ is a very interesting and positive feeling. It's the feeling of being in control and essentially being able to do what you want. Things no longer happen to you. One has financial agency. This is completely different from a reactive mindset.